Instead of government shutting down operations over stalled funding in the future, the bill would institute a one percent cut to then-current funding levels for any agency, program, and activity that Congress failed to fund by the start of the fiscal year (October 1). Every 90 days thereafter, funding would be reduced by another one percent if an agreement is still not enacted.

“It is time for Congress to take its job seriously and get its act together on spending. This legislation will stabilize our operations while imposing real restraints to push government toward fiscal responsibility,” said Dr. Paul.

Currently, Congress does not face any consequences for failing to pass appropriations bills on time. Without such motivation, Congress has demonstrated it will pursue procrastination over prudence and risk shutdowns due to impasses.

In addition to ensuring government honors its obligations, the legislation will give agencies the certainty of knowing that, in a worst-case scenario, they will always be able to operate with a full year of funding at no less than 96 percent of their current levels.